CSIRO use 3D mapping to explore Koonalda Cave in South Australia

WORLD-FIRST 3D mapping technology is creating a new wave of cave exploration, giving researchers and the public unprecedented access to sites of global significance.

CSIRO researchers used the new 3D mapping technology to explore the Koonalda Cave in South Australia, near the western border, for the SA Museum earlier this month.

The delicate site in the Nullarbor Regional Reserve, closed to the public, was used as a flint mine by Aboriginal people between about 30,000 and 10,000 years ago.

They left strange markings, called finger flutings, in the soft limestone walls by dragging their hands along established grooves.

Archaeologist Dr Keryn Walshe from the SA Museum says she wants to work out who made the finger flutings - men, women or children - but they are so fragile they crumble at the slightest touch.

"It is really tempting; it is really hard, actually, not to touch this soft surface because it's so inviting," she said.

"It's this beautiful pure white colour, it's like snow. It looks so lovely and soft you just want to touch it to see what it's like, but you mustn't."

Now researchers can analyse the 3D model from the comfort of their laboratory in Adelaide, using computer software or physical reconstructions of the cave created using 3D printers.

"It's a fantastic research tool, the fact that we can use the models in the lab when we have really good light and good conditions to work under, whereas in the cave, because it's in complete darkness, it's really hard to do the research," Dr Walshe said.

CSIRO scientists invented the technology, called Zebedee. It is licensed to UK start-up company GeoSLAM and global distributor 3D Laser Mapping.

The Zebedee system consists of a lightweight laser scanner mounted on a simple spring mechanism.

It bobs around as the operator moves through the area under investigation, converting 2D measurements into 3D fields of view.

News.com.au's Privacy Policy includes important information about our collection, use and disclosure of your personal information (including to provide you with targeted content and advertising based on your online activities). It explains that if you do not provide us with information we have requested from you, we may not be able to provide you with the goods and services you require. It also explains how you can access or seek correction of your personal information, how you can complain about a breach of the Australian Privacy Principles and how we will deal with a complaint of that nature.